Sculpting with light and colour

This life-sized cast iron figure, leaning into the wind with arms outstretched, has become an iconic symbol of the city, embodying the raw emotion and strength that characterise Patte’s work.

Max Patte’s journey into the world of sculpture began in the United Kingdom, where he was born and studied at the Wimbledon School of Art in London. His early career included a formative period at Madame Tussauds, where he developed his technical skills in lifelike representation. This experience significantly influenced his sculptural practice, teaching him the nuances of capturing the human form in a realistic yet expressive manner.

In 2006, Patte relocated to New Zealand, a move that profoundly impacted his artistic direction. The country’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture provided new sources of inspiration, allowing him to create some of his most celebrated works.

A defining aspect of Patte’s work is his innovative use of Resene paints. Known for their exceptional quality and extensive colour range, Resene paints have become a cornerstone of his creative process. Patte’s application of these paints goes beyond mere colour; he uses them to explore the interplay of light and texture, bringing a unique vibrancy and depth to his sculptures.

“The range and quality of Resene paints allow me to experiment with layers and textures that react to natural light in ways that traditional materials don’t,” Patte explains. This dynamic interaction with light adds a living element to his works, making them not just static sculptures but ever-changing experiences.

Patte’s technique involves applying multiple layers of Resene paint to create a sense of depth and movement. This method enhances the visual impact of his sculptures, making them appear almost alive as they respond to changing light conditions.

Now calling Mallorca home Max Patte’s artistic practice encompasses a wide range of media, including LED-lit installations and abstracted figurative sculptures. His Lightworks series, for example, features LED lights integrated with sculptural forms, creating immersive, luminous experiences that captivate viewers.

Patte’s ability to work across different disciplines is partly attributed to his background in the film industry, where he gained exposure to various modern technologies. This experience continues to influence his artistic process, allowing him to integrate cutting-edge techniques into his sculptures.

Though Max now resides in Mallorca he continues to foster a link back to New Zealand “I’m still using Resene paints” he says “ In fact I pretty much use them exclusively in my work as I find they have the best range of colours. It does cause me shipping issues however as my assistant there has to regularly send me hundreds of new testpots!

Through his innovative use of Resene paints, he has pushed the boundaries of traditional sculpture, creating pieces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply resonant.

Colours used by Max